Volkswagen Golf Estate (09 on) - Review

Don't be fooled by the updated grille and sharper headlights - this Volkswagen Golf Estate isn't strictly an new model as Volkswagen makes out, but essentially a revised version of the previous car. That's no bad thing though as the Golf Estate is an excellent family car with a surprisingly cavernous boot and an excellent reliability record. It has been improved further with an upgraded dashboard, even better cabin refinement and a range of frugal engines. There's also an impressively economical BlueMotion Technology version that is capable of 67.3mpg, while it emits 109g/km of CO2. Like the standard Golf, it's easy and enjoyable to drive whether in town or on the motorway, while its compact dimensions make it simple to park. There's even a system available called Park Assist which actually steers the car into parallel spaces for you. Of course, the Estate takes its key styling cues from the hatchback: there’s a new front bumper and body-coloured rear bumper, new wheel designs and revised tail lights as well as a new dashboard and updated interior. The trim range comprises S, SE and Sportline that are all available as BlueMotion versions. Standard kit includes air conditioning, a CD player, multifunction computer, electric windows and mirrors and body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, anti-whiplash head restraints and six airbags. Two petrol and three diesel engines are available and number of different gearboxes are offered, including the seven-speed DSG automatic. Essentially, this is the practical version of a popular hatchback and, with a 505-litre boot with seats in place rising to a maximum of 1,495 litres with the rear seats folded, it’s a strong contender in a segment that includes the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra estates, Peugeot 308 SW, Kia cee’d SW and the Renault Mégane Sport Tourer. The frugal diesel models are the most popular, making up more than 80% of Golf Estate models and the most popular single model is likely to be the SE 1.6-litre TDI 103bhp. Fleet buyers account for 65% of Golf Estate sales. To find out more, read the full Volkswagen Golf Estate review that follows.